[Medical Q&A] Will benign breast nodules eventually develop into breast cancer?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Kong Xiangyi, deputy chief physician, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences

Breast nodules are common breast problems in women, most of which are benign. Among benign nodules, common types include fibroadenoma, breast hyperplasia and breast adenosis, which usually do not develop into breast cancer. Breast cancer does not develop from these benign lesions. Breast cancer is either cancer from the beginning, or develops from carcinoma in situ, and sometimes it may transform from atypical hyperplasia.

Regarding common questions from patients, such as "I have a category 3 or 4a nodule, and the biopsy shows it is benign. Will it become cancer in the future?" or "If it is not removed now, will it get worse in the future?"

I always tell my patients that nodules are either benign or malignant. If the biopsy result shows benign now, it will generally remain benign. Malignant lesions do not usually transform from benign lesions. If malignant nodules are found in the future, they will be malignant from the beginning.

Therefore, for the treatment of benign nodules, the doctor will decide whether further intervention is needed based on the specific condition of the nodules and the patient's overall health. Regular monitoring and examination are important means to maintain breast health.